The News Agents Is there really a plot to oust the PM?
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Nov 12, 2025 Christine Flack, mother of the late Caroline Flack and advocate for media reform, shares her insights on the troubled media treatment of her daughter. She discusses the questionable police handling of Caroline’s prosecution and the media's role in amplifying the negative narrative. Christine emphasizes the need for stricter accountability in journalism to prevent similar tragedies. She also reflects on the impact of her documentary and her ongoing commitment to advocating for change in media practices.
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Defensive Briefing Backfires
- A Downing Street defensive briefing about a supposed plot to oust the PM surfaced out of nowhere and backfired.
- The combative denials made the Prime Minister look vulnerable rather than strong.
Use Measured Messaging Not Combative Leaks
- Avoid using combative, under-record briefings to 'nip rumours in the bud' because they can amplify stories.
- Use measured, authorised messaging to prevent hypothetical rumours turning into headlines.
Chief Of Staff At Centre Of Storm
- Many within Number 10 suspect Chief of Staff Morgan McSweeney acted without full clearance and escalated the situation.
- Keir Starmer avoided explicitly endorsing McSweeney in the Commons, creating political ambiguity.